Direct flights between Pakistan and Maldives on the horizon as PM stresses connectivity

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced plans for direct flights between Pakistan and the Maldives, emphasizing the importance of connectivity. Addressing the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum with Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Sharif promised a delegation of officials and businessmen to Malé within the next week.

He instructed the civil aviation department to invite the Maldivian delegation and work towards early implementation of these flights. Sharif also stressed the need for reliable maritime connectivity, stating that without a direct shipping schedule, Pakistan and Maldives will struggle to meet targets efficiently. The trade volume between Islamabad and Malé is approximately $13 million, and Sharif highlighted President Muizzu's agreement to increase bilateral trade to $200 million within two years.

Maldivian President Muizzu thanked Sharif for attending the forum, expressing the strong friendship and shared commitment to economic cooperation. He emphasized that while political and diplomatic relations are strong, the economic relationship needs to reach its full potential. Muizzu stated that the time has come to transform their friendship into a new era of trade, investment, and shared prosperity, aiming to increase bilateral trade to $200 million over the next two years.

He noted that Pakistan's agricultural sector already serves the Maldives and suggested partnerships in food processing and climate-adaptive agricultural technology. Both leaders agreed on the need for direct air and maritime connections to foster economic growth and regional stability.